Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.